Natura2000 sites Province of Utrecht

Natura 2000 is the coherent network of protected natural areas in the European Union consisting of Birds Directive and Habitats Directive Areas. Natura 2000 sites are a combination of both and the protected natural monuments therein. In the Netherlands, there are 163 areas, three of which are marine areas in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the North Sea (including a proposed Birds Directive area in the EEZ). The Birds Directive areas were largely designated in the period 1986-2000. The Habitats Directive sites are designated with the designation of the Natura 2000 sites concerned.